J-K heading towards self-reliance in power sector, says Omar Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said the state would generate 9000 MWs of power in the coming years to achieve self-reliance in this sector. "About 9000 MWs of electricity are in offing within next some years to realise the goal of self-reliance in power generation and helping all sectors of development to grow and expand comprehensively in the state," Omar said at a function in Srinagar.

Inspecting the 7.5 MW Branwar Small Hydro Power Project (SHP) established in IPP mode in central Kashmir’s Budgam district over Doodganga Nallah - a tributary of Sukhnag, the chief minister reiterated the state's high power potential and the firm determination to make required dent in this sector to achieve self-reliance and economic betterment.

"This will not only generate ample employment for the youth of the state but give new dimension to the economic activities," he said. While inspecting the SHP, Omar also examined the possibility of utilising the potential available there to generate another 22.5 MWs of power. The power development in the state has been flagged as focused area and measures have been put in place to generate electricity through small, medium and mega projects, he said adding PPP, IPP, joint ventures and Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation owned projects have been launched in the state to give considerable boost to indigenous power generation.

Omar highlighted the need for local investment in power generation projects and said that entrepreneurs of the state are being provided encouraging facilities and help to invest in the sector and be part in the economic development and prosperity of the state. He said about two dozen small and medium power projects are at various stages of execution under IPP mode in the state.